From: Sonja( -74.107.137.191)Subject: I could really use some adviceDate: March 2, 2011 at 8:56 am PST

Hello to everyone! Before you read this, I ask that you have an open mind and know that I am here for help/advice :-)

I used to frequent this message board many years ago. I made the decision to be come a vegan when I was about 14yrs old and continued to do so until I found out I was pregnant with my first child at age 24. The pregnancy was stressful and I was a hormonal wreck. Under the guidance of friends/family and my doctor, I abandoned my vegan diet and never looked back. During my first pregnancy I gained 150 pounds. Now I know that sounds absurd, but it is true. It was not long until I was pregnant again with my son, and gain another 60lbs. I have never been as unhealthy and out of shape in my life as i have been since I quit eating a vegan diet. I dont know how I let myself get to this point and why I have continued to eat such a crappy diet. I wouldnt say I even eat a lot of meat now. My kids are pretty much the same. We tend to eat a lot of dairy and boxed foods to be honest. All I know is that I am struggling to find a balance in my life, and I know deep down in my heart that I am eating the wrong foods and desperatly want to get back on track.

My problem is this....I feel overwhelmed. It has been 8 years since I have eaten a vegan diet. I still have a few of my vegan/vegetarian cook books from back then like the uncheese cook book which was my fav. We are on a budget (who isnt) and I also really need to lose weight. I know that by adopting a vegan diet the weight will come off, but I want to be smart about what I buy/cook.

I am looking for any advice on how to feed me and my two kids on a budget. Simple meals or ideas will help me greatly. My husband is a picky eater and has always cooked his own foods, so I dont have to worry about him as much.

I hope I havent bored anyone to death. And I appretiate anything anyone can offer.